In a recent development, the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), has decided to extend the ultimatum it had previously issued to the Federal Government by an additional six weeks. This decision was reached during the association’s National Executive Council (NEC), meeting held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Sunday.
The communique issued at the end of the NEC meeting, which was signed by MDCAN’s President, Prof Mohammad Mohammad, and Secretary-General, Dr. Daiyabu Ibrahim, highlighted the decision to grant a six-week extension to the ultimatum, originally set to expire on January 31, 2024.
The extension is intended to provide room for further consultation with the government.
While expressing disappointment that several engagements with relevant government agencies have not yielded significant progress on the association’s demands, the NEC emphasized that industrial harmony could not be guaranteed if the government fails to address their concerns after the six-week grace period.
Among the key issues raised by MDCAN were the shortfall in salaries and income loss for honorary consultants (clinical lecturers), the universal applicability of CONMESS to all medical and dental officers in public service, and the harmonization of the retirement age of hospital consultants.
The NEC also observed the inadequate budgetary allocation to the health sector, noting that it remains below 5% of the country’s overall budget. Additionally, it highlighted the increased cost of healthcare delivery due to inflation and poor health insurance coverage.
MDCAN called on the government to enhance budgetary allocation to the health sector, aiming to achieve the Abuja Declaration’s target of at least 15%. The association urged improvements in the economy to enhance per capita spending on health.
Addressing specific healthcare concerns, MDCAN advised the National Health Insurance Agency to expand its enrollment to accommodate vulnerable populations. The association also called for measures to mitigate factors contributing to the rise in mental health disorders among medical professionals.
Finally, the NEC extended condolences to the families affected by the Ibadan blast and urged strict adherence to rules and regulations governing the acquisition, transportation, and storage of explosives. The association emphasized the importance of vigilance among Nigerians to ensure safety and security.
In addition, MDCAN urged heightened awareness of Lassa Fever, advising healthcare workers and the public to exercise a high index of suspicion and observe necessary precautionary measures.
The decision to extend the ultimatum underscores MDCAN’s commitment to pressing for the resolution of critical issues affecting its members and the broader healthcare sector in Nigeria.
